Happyland visit

Hello guys,

I'll be in the Philippines for about 3 weeks, from mid-April until early/mid-May.

I recently watched some documentaries about Happyland in Manila. A friend of mine visited about two years ago together with a local friend, and he told me about the experience — he had many meaningful conversations and said the people were very open and friendly.

I would also like to visit Happyland, but it's very important to me to do this in a respectful and mindful way. I don’t want to come across as a tourist looking for some kind of “attraction” or treating the place like a spectacle.

My intention is not curiosity in a negative sense, but rather genuine interest in the people and their stories. I believe that maybe it can also mean something when outsiders show that they are not afraid or disgusted, but instead approach with respect and openness.

At the same time, I would like to support people if possible — but in the right way. I don’t want to just show up, hand out money, and act like some kind of savior. I’d prefer something more thoughtful and appropriate.

So I was wondering if anyone here has a local contact in Manila who is familiar with the area and could potentially guide me or connect me with the community in a respectful way.

I would really appreciate any recommendations or contacts.

Thanks a lot!